Church services mark 60th anniversary of Queen's coronation

Events to mark the 60th anniversary of the Queen's coronation are low key in comparison to the nationwide celebrations that took place for her Diamond Jubilee last year

Christians celebrated 60 years since the coronation of the Queen with special services and prayers today.

Belfast Cathedral was among those holding special services. Dean John Mann said: "This magnificent and symbolic event in 1953 is one that remains in the minds of many people – sometimes for the simple reason that they bought their first television set in order to watch it; or the whole street gathered in the living room of a neighbour who had managed to afford one.

"It was a different world, a world that has changed rapidly. I hope that in bringing to mind this historic day in celebration in St Anne's on Sunday, that those recalling it with affection in Belfast may be in joyful mood and uplifted in heart and soul."

Christians were also due to gather for a service of thanksgiving and prayer outside Buckingham Palace today.

The Queen was expected to take part in a service with members of the royal family at Windsor Castle.

On Tuesday, she will attend a service at Westminster Abbey. The service will be joined by 2,000 guests. The Archbishop of Cameron will preach, while Prime Minister David Cameron will give a reading.

Celebrations of the coronation are low key after her Diamond Jubilee was marked with spectacular festivities and community events across the nation last year.

A four-day Coronation Festival has been planned for later in the summer. It will be held in the gardens of Buckingham Palace.